Automatic watering timers.

[longd_au]

I am trialing an Open source sprinkler unit. For those not in software development, here is what open source is according to wiki
"Generally, open source refers to a computer program in which the source code is available to the general public for use and/or modification from its original design. Open source code is typically created as a collaborative effort in which programmers improve upon the code and share the changes within the community. Open source sprouted in the technological community as a response to proprietary software owned by corporations."

The unit is powered by a main power and has more or less the same features as most watering systems with one important exception, it supports online scheduling. In other words, you can talk to it over the web.
A scenario is you let it run according to your schedule but on those occasions you want to turn on the water to one of 8 ports (solenoid connections), you can open a connection to it using your iphone, android, tablets, pc, notebook etc and trigger a once off watering session for N minutes. You can also change the scheduling program over the web too. And you can be anywhere in the world (as long as you have internet access).

I have not had it for long so I am not sure how robust it is but so far, so good.

Without internet access, it is just like any automatic watering system. If you plug in a wireless adapter or an internet connection, it becomes WWW enabled.
Find out more from here. http://rayshobby.net/?page_id=160

I bought mine for around $100 AUD posted to Australia from the states.

[mattgatenby]

I've been using the open sprinkler controller for sometime now with great results ! I had even gone as far as to setup pipe work across the roof of the house which gave me piece of mind with all the fires burning around home (I live in Winmalee) as I was able to remotely turn the system on while making the mad dash home from work to defend my property.

If anyone would like help setting up and configuring or any advise on what components you need feel free to drop me a PM. Although I have a background in electronics and computing these controllers are very simple to operate and maintain if setup properly.

Matt

[kcpoole]

What a brilliant find Dennis
thanks for posting. I will have to look at getting one myself

Ken

[Boics]

Very interesting stuff.

This remote automation stuff is going to really really take off in the coming years.

How does the open sprinkler cope with a loss of power?

Thanks,

P.S. I use an automatic battery powered sprinkler system and it has been a god send.
Onto my 2nd one now (forget the brand) but it was around $100 from memory.

[mattgatenby]

How does the open sprinkler cope with a loss of power?

I have a few key components of my home automation network running through a UPS (Uninteruptable Power Supply) 2 of them being the open sprinkler and router/modem. The router/modem is not essential for the open sprinkler controller to start and stop on it's pre program schedule but it is required to remotely control the sprinklers while away from home.

[kcpoole]

Very interesting stuff.

This remote automation stuff is going to really really take off in the coming years.

How does the open sprinkler cope with a loss of power?

Thanks,

P.S. I use an automatic battery powered sprinkler system and it has been a god send.
Onto my 2nd one now (forget the brand) but it was around $100 from memory.

Will stop working as it is mains powered, but will pickup when the power returns.
I have tried many battery units and gave up years ago after losing plants when the battery failed while on hols. I went thru 4 of them trying to find one that did not leak into the battery compartment.

Migrated to mains powered with remote solenoids and have never had an issue in 5+ years.

Ken

[macca66]

Hi Folks,
I had a disaster about five years ago when my timer failed and I lost 2/3 of my collection!
The answer? Use Lithium batteries, they go forever...

[kcpoole]

Hi Folks,
I had a disaster about five years ago when my timer failed and I lost 2/3 of my collection!
The answer? Use Lithium batteries, they go forever...

until the Timer leaks into the battery case and shorts the batteries out
That was what happened to 2 of my original timers and they were not cheapos either

The only Failsafe solution is to run mulitple timers off multiple taps and even then I will make sure I have someone visit to oversee the operation.

Ken

[Isitangus]

There's always the solar option...
http://www.livingapartment.com.au/Produ ... ion-System
http://www.irrigatia.com.au/range.html
Benefits would also be if connected to a drum/small tank you may be able to put your liquid fert/seasol in also.

[longd_au]

I am trialing an open source sprinkler unit that does scheduling on 8 ports as well as remote access from anywhere with internet access.
If you set it up without internet access at home, it is just a normal scheduler that drives 24VAC solenoids.
With internet access, you can turn water on off and change schedules anytime, anywhere in the world.

I've haven't had this unit running for long and it has not been field tested. It is open source so the software, electronic schematic is free for all.
If you are interested in such a unit, google up Open Sprinkler and you should get heaps of resources.

I ordered mine from the states and with delivery cost me around $90 (unit only without solenoids).
Let me know if you want more information.

[JaseH]

Anyone still using the Open Sprinkler unit to control their watering system? How has it been? I'm looking at getting one and am just wondering how they have been performing for those that have used them?

[Elmar]

G'day Jase,
After a killer week (2 weeks ago) of +45 degrees, I'm working towards a green/shade house with a misting system.
Temperatures for us are only a problem because they are so high, so I think this'll keep my trees alive and not overwater them...
It doesn't teach you to water correctly, but it'll keep my trees in better shape than what happened when I was away... During the killer week...[DISAPPOINTED FACE]


Cheers
EZ
Via Tapatalk

[Phoenix238]

Wow, missed this one previously, will definitely be looking into the Open Sprinkler unit after we move (planning on moving by Feb)

[longd_au]

Hi

I still use the Open Sprinkler main controller without problem.
I also want to add, the system has 8 ports (maybe more now as mine is more than a year old and they have regular updates), and you don't have to only connect solenoid to them.
I have seen people hook up other 24VAC devices such as motors etc to remotely control them as well.
Example, it is possible to open and close shades, feed pets remotely etc. As long as you have a 24VAC device, it can be controlled remotely.

Using UPS for power lost is a great idea. UPS is also a great idea for keeping security cameras running too. Or any security systems for that matter.

[JaseH]

Thanks Dennis - think I'll give it a go. I still plan to water by hand but often am not home for a day or two so like the idea of being able to log in remotely to trigger a watering cycle if needed. Or if we get a particularly warm day I can trigger an extra watering cycle from work.